Comparison by sex between thrombin generation and fibrin network characteristics in a healthy population.

Abstract Background The aim of the present work was to compare sex differences in thrombin generation and fibrin network characteristics in a young healthy population, and correlate thrombin generation parameters with fibrin network characteristics. Methods Sixty individuals aged 21 y (18–26), 50% men and 50% women were selected. Thrombin generation was performed with the Technothrombin® TGA kit. Plasma fibrin formation kinetic was followed by turbidity at 350 nm, and the fibrin elastic modulus was measured with the Hemodyne®. In addition, the prothrombin polymorphism G20210A was assessed. Results Thrombin generation in men was: lag time (LT): 12.5 ± 3.0 min, peak thrombin: 257 ± 135 nmol/l, and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP): 3459 ± 449 nmol/l·min, while in women the LT was shortened (9.7 ± 2.8 min, p p Conclusions The differences in thrombin generation between women and men were not related to prothrombin concentration, prothrombin polymorphism G20210A or fibrinogen concentration.